How do the ski models perform for the new season and how do they look? Once again this year, the World Ski Test provides answers to these questions. At the end of March, skis for the 2025/2026 winter season were tested in the spectacular Hohe Tauern National Park region in Heiligenblut – for the third time at this special location. We were there again too – and can now present the results in autumn.
The new ski models put to the test
Every year towards the end of winter, the latest ski models for the following season are put through their paces at the World Ski Test. The most renowned ski manufacturers send their top models into the race in each test category. Brands such as Atomic, Salomon, Fischer, Völkl, Blizzard, Nordica, Elan and Kästle were represented at the 2025 Alpine Ski Test. The independent testers are a colourful mix of active and former professional athletes, passionate amateur skiers and international ski journalists. And we were there again too.
The World Ski Test comprises a total of three test events: the Alpine Ski Test, the Freeride Ski Test and the Touring Ski Test. A special feature this year was that all three tests took place together in Heiligenblut. The tests were carried out on the perfectly groomed slopes of the Großglockner Bergbahnen – with the majestic Großglockner as an impressive backdrop.
Overview of the test categories
| Alpine Ski Test | Freeride Ski Test | Touring Ski Test |
|---|---|---|
| Men High Performance | Freeride until 100mm | Touring Men |
| Ladies High Performance | Freeride over 100mm | Touring Women |
| Men Performance | ||
| Ladies Performance | ||
| Race SL | ||
| AllMountain |
In the Race category, slalom (SL) and giant slalom (GS) models are tested on an annual basis. This year, it was once again the turn of the SL models.
How the test works
All skis are completely covered in black tape and marked only with a number. This allows the testers to evaluate performance completely neutrally and without brand influence. Only one test run is completed with each ski model. Immediately after the run, the testers fill out their evaluation forms. They award points from 1 to 10 in five criteria, with 10 being the highest score. A ski can therefore achieve a maximum of 50 points.
The following characteristics are evaluated: long turns, short turns, edge grip, smoothness and overall effort required. In the latter case, a high rating means that the ski is particularly comfortable and energy-efficient to ride.
Special features of freeride and touring ski testing
The tests in the freeride and touring categories generally follow the same procedure as the alpine ski test, but there are a few special features.
Freeriders are tested in two categories. The narrower models up to 100 millimetres are tested both on groomed slopes and in open terrain. Unlike in all other categories, there are two test runs and separate ratings for both areas of use. In addition, the ski's turning ability is assessed in the backcountry instead of edge grip. This also applies to the freeride category above 100 millimetres.
In addition to the skiing characteristics, the handling of the skins is also assessed for touring skis. Accordingly, the maximum achievable score here is 60 instead of 50.
SnowStyle for the best design
Because appearance plays just as important a role as performance when buying skis, the design of the models is also evaluated after the test runs. For the SnowStyle Award, all tested skis are presented again without black tape. The testers award personal gold, silver and bronze awards for the most appealing design in each category.
Perfect conditions on the Großglockner
The Hohe Tauern National Park region provided ideal conditions for the World Ski Test. A mix of sunshine and fresh snow ensured varied testing conditions – freeriders even had the opportunity to test wide skis in fresh powder snow. The excellent cooperation with Kärnten Werbung, the Heiligenblut Tourist Board, the Großglockner Bergbahnen, the Haus der Steinböcke and the partner hotels Lärchenhof and Nationalpark Lodge Großglockner contributed significantly to the smooth running of the event.
Among the numerous testers were prominent names from the world of skiing: Daniel Danklmaier (ÖSV Speed Team), World Champion Nicole Schmidhofer, Team World Champion Eva Maria Brem, Olympic Champion Fritz Strobl, World Champion Hannes Reichelt, World Champion Manfred Pranger, Double Team World Champion Philipp Schörghofer and Olympic bronze medallist Jure Košir.
A special highlight were the evening events at the ‘Haus der Steinböcke’ – with guided tours of the exhibition, regional cuisine and plenty of opportunity for professional exchange. The youth ski test on Friday, where motivated young skiing talents from the region tested the skis with great enthusiasm and precision, brought the event to a successful close.
Results from the start of the season
As usual, you will find the results of the World Ski Test in our magazine from the start of the World Cup season in autumn. As soon as the results are published, we will also link them at the top of the table. Until then, you can view the results from previous years.
